Exchange information between adoptive and birth families

Overview

Through the Ongoing Information Exchange (OIE) program, adoptive parents and birth family members can maintain contact with each other through the exchange of non-identifying correspondence until the adopted child turns 18. The adoptive parents and birth family members can share photos, letters and cards (but not money, gifts or gift cards) in a safe and confidential way.

Birth family members may include:

• birth mother and birth father
• grandparents
• adult siblings
• aunts and uncles
• adoptive parents of siblings

Birth parent consent is not required for family members to participate.

Prior to granting the adoption, the caseworker will ensure that both the adoptive parents and birth family members understand that they have the option of participating in the exchange of correspondence.

If only one party submits an application, Records, Registry and Connections will not contact the other party to see if they wish to participate in the exchange.

Adoptive parents and birth family members may contact Records, Registry and Connections at any time after the Adoption Order has been granted to submit an OIE application.

Sending correspondence

All correspondence is sent in to Records, Registry and Connections where it is reviewed to ensure it does not contain any identifying information. Correspondence is then forwarded to the other party by registered mail to ensure unclaimed mail is returned to our office.

If correspondence cannot be forwarded for 3 consecutive years, the first party will be advised to stop sending correspondence. The exchange can resume when the second party contacts our office.

How to apply

Step 1. Complete the form

The adoptive parent(s) and birth family members fill out an Ongoing Information Exchange (PDF, 2 MB) form.

You can also get this form by calling our office.

Step 2. Photocopy 2 pieces of identification

A photocopy of 2 pieces of identification must be provided for each applicant, one of which is photo identification. If you are not sure whether your ID meets requirements, please contact our office.

Step 3. Mail, email or fax the form and photocopies of identification

You can mail or fax the form and photocopies of your identification.

Address:
Records, Registry and Connections
10th Floor, Sterling Place
9940 106 Street
Edmonton, Alberta  T5K 2N2

Fax: 780‑427‑2048
Email: [email protected]

After you apply

Once your form has been received and processed, you will be advised whether the other party is also interested in participating in an exchange. If both parties agree, you will be advised that you can start sending correspondence.

Contact

To connect with Records, Registry and Connections:

Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (open Monday to Friday, closed statutory holidays)
Phone: 780-427-6387
Toll free: 310-0000 before the phone number (in Alberta)
Email: [email protected]